NJ Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell Resigns After Harassment Probe
New Jersey Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell stepped down on Friday. He left office after an investigation found serious issues. Governor Mikie Sherrill accepted his resignation this afternoon. This follows a report released Thursday by state officials. The report detailed ethical lapses and sexual harassment claims. RedState confirmed the Democrat official handed in his notice. Sherrill had given him until today to quit. He chose to leave rather than stay and fight.
According to reports, the investigation revealed that the lieutenant governor neglected his official duties and exhibited conduct falling short of this administration's standards. She made the call after months of scrutiny. The Washington Times reported the inquiry was a bombshell for the state. The probe looked at how he treated staff members. It found he broke state policy many times.
Sherrill noted that the report records serious, repeated breaches of state policy, such as ethical failures and a confirmed instance of sexual harassment. ABC News noted the inquiry found credible evidence of a romantic advance. Caldwell reportedly made a move toward a female staffer's friend. When she rejected him, he made inappropriate comments to the staffer. The report says he also sought a promotion for a woman he dated.
Sherrill asserted that the ethical failures continued even after numerous warnings and training sessions were provided. She told the public that she holds everyone in her Administration to the highest ethical standard. She stated that any individual breaking these rules will face accountability. The governor did not mince words about the behavior. She said the findings were clear and the actions were wrong. This was not a small mistake. It was a pattern of bad choices.
Caldwell issued a statement explaining his choice to leave. He explained that resigning was a hard choice made to avoid distracting from the administration's vital work or the duty owed to New Jersey's citizens. He additionally stated his wish that Governor Mikie Sherrill and her administration receive every opportunity to succeed. But he did not admit guilt.
He clarified that his resignation must not be seen as an admission of guilt or a concession to the report's conclusions. He strongly contested the report, asserting it contains inaccuracies and references violations lacking substantiation. He promised to keep fighting for his name. He stated his entry into public service was intended for serving others, not for personal gain. His attorney is disputing the allegations as well. The story ends with his departure, but the debate continues.